Missoula Police Seeking Identity of Suspect Wanted for Violent Robbery of Another Man’s Beer

Missoula police have released the photograph of a suspect wanted for robbing beer. The robbery occurred a little over a month ago on Tuesday, January 18th. Missoula Police Detective Scott Pastian described what happened.

"On the 18th at about 2:00 a.m. in the morning we had three individuals walking in the area of Hazel and South 2nd Street," Pastian said. "They had just purchased some beer from a local convenience store and were walking home. Essentially, the three were attacked by three unknown males who took their beer."

A video camera from across the street was able to capture images of one of the assailants. Missoula Police Department Public Information Officer Travis Welsh, explains why the police are still pursuing an investigation into stolen beer.

"In this case it is not so much about the item that was stolen, it was the fact that an assault occurred during the commission of the theft, which, in fact, makes it a robbery," Welsh said. "Robbery is a felony offense. The serious nature of this case revolves around the felony is due to the fact that we're considering a felony here, not misdemeanor beer theft."

One of the victims was hospitalized with orbital bone fractures and a broken nose. Police are hoping that the public can identify the suspect caught on film.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Missoula Police Department at 552-6300, or Missoula Crimestoppers at 721-44-44.